The Valencia Collection’s distinct style originates
in the countries along the Mediterranean Sea. Named for one of the oldest and most charming cities in Spain, the region is known for its’ turquoise waters, vibrant countryside, Tuscan vineyards and sun-drenched living spaces. Drawing upon ...

Tips for picking the best dining table for your unique style The dining room is more than just the place to be when the clock strikes 7 p.m. It’s the room in which you entertain guests and indulge in lively conversations among family and friends -- and it’s the perfect setting to show off your tasteful sense of style with the dining table of your dreams. Highlight your love of traditional decor with a classic pedestal dining table with carved legs and ornate detailing, or stick to modern elements with clean, contemporary lines and versatile glass tabletops. Prefer weathered finishes and tables carved with character? Try serving Southern comfort food atop a rustic dining table with distressed wood, chipped finishes and plenty of charm. Transitional tables combine contemporary and traditional elements for a laid-back environment with a cozy look and feel.

Ideas for sizing your dining table to your room The size of your dining room table may revolve around your space and family size, but it also hinges on the size and shape of the room. If you’ll primarily use the table to seat a family of five, you may want to choose a 42 inch round table. A hostess with the mostess may want to consider a five foot rectangular table with optional leaves that can be utilized on special occasions. Make sure to provide enough elbow room for each guest (approximately 24 inches to 30 inches is best), and factor in the depth needed to accommodate place settings and table decor. You’ll also want to choose a table that allows dinner guests to sit down and stand up without knocking their chairs into nearby walls and furnishings, so aim for a minimum of 36 inches of free space on all sides of the table, keeping in mind that 42+ inches is best.

- FAQs -

Q: What are some of the popular types and styles of dining room tables?

A: At Bellacor, our dining table collection is filled with a wide variety of popular styles. From traditional rectangle designs that seat multiple family and friends to smaller round tables that allow for cozier gatherings, these tables come in different aesthetics to suit your styling preferences and entertaining needs. If you are looking for pedestal tables, trestle base tables or more of a modern table with metal or legs, we have you covered. Weathered wood tables are perfect for a farmhouse feel, while two-tone tables add visual dimension to your space.

A: Determining what size dining room table you need is dependent on the size of the room and how many people you plan to entertain. Round tables are a smart option for smaller spaces, while rectangular tables work well in long narrow rooms. A square room will be best suited for a square dining room table. Each person will need approximately 36-42 inches of space between the table and the wall for maximum comfort and ideally a minimum of 28 inches of eating space so base your table size on how many guests you’ll typically serve. Tip: if you plan on hosting several guests in the future but have a smaller space, opt for a drop leaf table or one with removable leaves.

A: The size of a rectangular table generally equates to the number of people it will seat in a 1:1 ratio (a six foot table seats six people, an eight foot table seats eight people, etc.) Round tables, on the other hand, are more affected by their base and will seat more people if they’re made with a pedestal. Also keep in mind that the width of your chair and if the chair has arms, will effect the total that will fit around your table.

A: Cozy dinners are lovely, but it’s better to err on the side of having too much room for your guests as opposed to creating a crowded dining experience. Make sure to leave 42 to 48 inches of clearance space around your table so that guests can move their chairs and rise from the table without interrupting other guests or interfering with the room’s traffic flow.

Q: What woods and finishes will last the longest without needing repair or replacement?

A: Hardwood dining room tables are built for longevity thanks to their solid construction, strength and durability. If you’re searching for a table you can pass on for generations, look for wooden designs crafted with oak, mahogany and walnut. Weathered wood finishes are especially ideal for hiding wear and tear. Marble is more susceptible to stains and cracks, but tables made with tempered safety glass are surprisingly durable and match a variety of decorative themes.

A: Choosing between a square or round dining table typically comes down to the shape of your dining room and how many guests you plan to regularly entertain. Square tables are best placed in square rooms, and they tend to provide a little more elbow room than round designs. If you have a small dining room, a round pedestal dining table may fit the space easier -- and it will allow guests to stretch out their legs thanks to its slender base. Rectangular tables are perfect for long rooms and seating many guest, especially if it is a table that has leaves. Square tables are generally more sturdy than round ones, while round dining room tables are easier to work around thanks to their lack of sharp edges. Choose according to your room size and entertaining practices.